Wm Moodie Letter 12 March, 1857 –
12 pages
This
letter is difficult but not impossible to read. I have reduced the ‘ghost’
writing as much as I can without making the top writing too disjointed.
The
first 5 pages comment on politics.
Wm
then describes the problems with the new printing methods – the machines are
useful for heavier work but no cheaper for smaller work, and they are prone to problems
and difficult to repair.
Although
the economy is picking up generally, the printing industry is still problematic
and employment in the field is fitful.
Wm
is still keen to become a music teacher, though lacking confidence, and he is
also try his hand at composing music, e.g. for psalms (dance music wasn’t for
him).
William
snr (still in Turkey) has invented a new type of steamer engine – a ‘marine locomotive’
-described.
Wm
describes changes to Busby area, with new railways being built and new housing etc.
(including an entertaining description of a modern ‘castle’.
There
is some mention of local people, including a scandal involving A Wilson (a
cheque taken from a letter). Wm also finally declares his admiration and love
for Mary (Rankin), saying they are virtually always together (even when apart).
Mar 28-30, 1857 - Alexandria, Scotland
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